Care & Cleaning

You have questions, we have answers

• Can I wear the DivaCup when I _______?

  You can wear the DivaCup for any activity you participate in while menstruating, except for vaginal intercourse. This includes swimming, scuba diving, camping, sleeping, running, yoga, weightlifting, gymnastics – you name it! If you are using the correct size and have inserted the DivaCup correctly, it should not move out of place or leak no matter your activity level.

  NOTE: The DivaCup should be used during menstruation only, and should not be inserted at any other time.

• How much blood does it hold?

  Our DivaCup Model 1 holds one full ounce of menstrual flow (30 ml) and Model 2 holds just over one ounce (32 ml). DivaCup Model 0 holds just over half an ounce (20 ml) of flow. For comparison, the average regular sized tampon holds about 5 ml of menstrual flow.

  The measurement lines on your DivaCup help you keep track of your flow and report details to a healthcare provider if needed.

• How should I get ready to use it for the first time?

  Before your first DivaCup use, submerge the DivaCup in an open pot of boiling water for 5 – 10 minutes, using a stainless steel pot that is designated to boil your DivaCup. This is a mandatory first step.

  It is not necessary to boil your DivaCup between cycles, as regular cleaning can be sufficient. For more information on proper care and cleaning, visit here.

• Can I have sex with the DivaCup in?

  As the DivaCup sits low in the vaginal canal, it cannot be worn during vaginal intercourse and should be removed before engaging in this kind of sexual activity.

• I have an IUD (intrauterine device)/NuvaRing®. Can I still use a DivaCup?

  The DivaCup is worn low at the base of the vagina and away from the cervix, which means that it should not interfere with an internal birth control device. However, please use caution when using any internal menstrual care product with an IUD, as there is the possibility that the IUD can be dislodged, depending on how recently your IUD was implanted. As with any gynecological concerns, please consult with your health care provider prior to using any kind of internal menstrual care product, including a menstrual cup.

  When using the DivaCup, it is important to carefully follow the directions in our User Guide, paying close attention to inserting the DivaCup low in the vaginal canal and breaking the seal (suction) before removal. Many of our customers use the DivaCup with an IUD or NuvaRing® simultaneously, but we recommend that you become familiar with your birth control device’s risks (such as the body expelling the IUD, etc.). Our blog post on using the DivaCup with an IUD can provide more information. 

• Are there any special circumstances where I shouldn’t use my DivaCup?

  If you have any medical concerns or conditions, please speak to your healthcare provider prior to using the DivaCup.

  There is no known increased risk of yeast infections with the use of menstrual cups. However, if you have a vaginal infection, it is best to discontinue use of the DivaCup until the infection has cleared up completely. If you used your DivaCup while you had a yeast infection, we recommend replacing the cup with a new one.

  Never use your DivaCup at the same time that you are using a topical medication in your vaginal area. The medication may compromise the silicone of your DivaCup and ruin it. If this happens, please replace the cup with a new one.

  The DivaCup should not be used for postnatal bleeding. Please contact your physician before using any internal period care product after childbirth.

  For further questions concerning vaginal infections and use of a menstrual cup, please contact a physician or healthcare provider.

• Could I have an allergic reaction to the DivaCup?

  It is extremely rare to have an allergy or sensitivity to silicone. Studies indicate that silicone is biocompatible with the body, which is why silicone has been used in healthcare applications for over 50 years. If you do experience skin sensitivity, immediately discontinue use and contact your health care provider.

• I have a latex allergy. Can I use the DivaCup?

  The DivaCup is made from durable, top quality, medical grade silicone that is suitable for use by those with latex allergies, because it is nitrosamine and latex-free.